We’re very proud of our great community at Plumpton College
You can be guaranteed that when you join us, we’ll work hard to help you on your career journey
Book an appointment with the Foundation Learning Department for more information on Pathways, by clicking the link below.
Get the best possible start to your career with our Foundation Learning Pathway courses.
It’s a great stepping stone into college and further education. The course will develop your independence and confidence, preparing you for further study and progression into work best suited to your skills and experience.
We have a dedicated Foundation Learning building to provide an environment where you can thrive. Many of our Foundation Learning students have successfully progressed onto vocational courses including Equine, Animal Care, Floristry, Motor Vehicle and Horticulture.
Find out more information about Foundation Learning here.
In this video, Simon will explain about our Foundation Learning courses:
In this video, Natasha gives an overview of our Supported Internship Programme:
Simon McGil, our Foundation Learning Lecturer explains more about the practical aspects within our Foundation Learning Course.
Have a look at the video to see what our students have been covering within their courses.
How many days will I be in college?
This will depend on which course you are doing, but a normal study programme for students aged 16+ is 3 days per week in college (including English and maths). If you are doing the Supported Internship, you will be timetabled for 5 days per week, but not all of this time will be spent in college. For school students, you will normally be in college for 1 day per week and electively home educated, it can be one, two, or three days depending on your subject choices.
How do I get to college?
There are various ways that you can get to us. We run an extensive bus service exclusively for Plumpton College students, which we try to make as affordable as possible. If travelling by train, we are close to a number of local stations, where you can connect to our bus network to get to us. We also offer free car parking, but you will need to register your car with us during enrollment. You can find out more about travelling to college on the website here:
https://www.plumpton.ac.uk/student-info/travel/
What time does college start and finish?
This will depend on your course, but generally classes start at 9:15am and end at 4:15pm. You will have breaks scheduled throughout the day, including a longer lunch break.
We take attendance for all parts of your course very seriously, and our college attendance expectation is 95%. You must therefore ensure that you attend all parts of your study programme. Details of reporting absence will be delivered once you start college.
What can I wear to college?
Whilst we do not have a strict dress code policy, you should dress appropriately and comfortably. You should not wear anything that could cause offence. For specific courses, you may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as overalls or steel-capped boots. You will be informed of this before you start your course.
Please be aware that for Equine, Horse and Animal Care you will be required to remove your piercings.
Who will my teacher be?
We have a fantastic array of teaching staff within the department, all with our own unique skills and interests. You can click through to each course area to see and hear from some of our staff. You might have met one or more of your teachers during your interview if you have been through this process already. You will be able to meet all of your teachers during your induction.
What food is available at college and how much is it?
We all know how important food is, so we make sure that our dedicated catering team deliver a high-quality service to all our students. In fact, Ofsted have rated it as outstanding. Our menu is full of great dishes that cater for all tastes and lifestyles, and we cater for specific diets or requests. The focus is on using locally sourced, high quality ingredients. We have a main dining hall where hot meals can be purchased, and two small snack bars offering a lighter menu, or for students who may not like to eat in front of others or in large crowds.
How do I apply for a bursary?
We have bursary funds that are given on a discretionary basis to provide financial assistance to eligible students who, without support, would not have access to learning. At this time this is not available to 14-16 students who are EHE. Support is targeted to those most in need, therefore we consider all awards on an individual basis and in a variety of formats. More information can be found by clicking this link:
https://www.plumpton.ac.uk/student-info/funding-loans/16-finance/
What kind of support can I get at college? (learning and pastoral)
We have a number of experienced staff within the support departments on campus, plus our external network of support, which you will find invaluable both while you’re here and after your time at Plumpton College. Whether you need help with your studies, in class, with personal issues or have any other concerns, staff will always be available to assist you. You can read more about the support available on the website here:
https://www.plumpton.ac.uk/student-info/student-support/
Can I bring my laptop/tablet to use in class?
Yes. A number of students bring their personal devices to use in college. If you do bring your own laptop or tablet, you must remember that it's your responsibility to take care of it. Sometimes you will have to use college resources for particular assignments or if particular software is being used.
Do I need to buy any books/materials?
All full-time students pay a facilities fee of £120 prior to starting their course. As mentioned, you may also need to purchase yourself some PPE. If you are eligible, the college bursary may be able to assist you with these costs.
How will I be assessed?
Assessments vary course by course, and there are different awarding bodies for the qualification you are taking, but most work is assessed through coursework and practical assessments. We will work with you throughout the year to ensure that you're fully prepared for any assessments that you have to undertake. All of this information will be covered during your course induction.
When will my exams be and where can I get extra support?
You will receive information about when your exams are to be scheduled when you start your course. It is helpful at the beginning of your studies if you have had exam access arrangement previously, e.g. extra time, that you let us know so that we can look to have these in place for you here. As mentioned, you will be given plenty of notice beforehand for exam dates. You can find out more about receiving support from our Additional Learning Support department:
https://www.plumpton.ac.uk/student-info/student-support/
Can I smoke/vape at college?
Smoking, including vaping and any use of e-cigarettes, on site must be contained within the designated smoking areas. Smoking elsewhere is a health and safety hazard and is strictly prohibited.
Students aged 14-16 are not allowed to smoke on site at all due their age.
If you have any further questions, please complete an enquiry form and we will be happy to answer them.
Thank you for showing an interest in our courses.
Foundation Learning Team